Original
Modern English
Madam, this letter, and some certain jewels, Lay with you in your coffer: which are now At your command. Know you the character?
Madam, this letter, and some specific jewels, Were placed with you in your chest: which are now At your disposal. Do you recognize the handwriting?
It is my lord’s. That I was shipp’d at sea, I well remember, Even on my eaning time; but whether there Deliver’d, by the holy gods, I cannot rightly say. But since King Pericles, My wedded lord, I ne’er shall see again, A vestal livery will I take me to, And never more have joy.
It’s from my lord. I clearly remember being shipped at sea, Even at the time of my conception; but whether I Was delivered, by the holy gods, I can’t say for sure. But since King Pericles, My husband, I will never see again, I’ll take a vow of chastity, And never again experience joy.
Madam, if this you purpose as ye speak, Diana’s temple is not distant far, Where you may abide till your date expire. Moreover, if you please, a niece of mine Shall there attend you.
Madam, if this is your intention, Diana’s temple isn’t far away, Where you can stay until your time has passed. Also, if you wish, a niece of mine Will attend to you there.
My recompense is thanks, that’s all; Yet my good will is great, though the gift small.
My only reward is my thanks, nothing more; Though the gift is small, my gratitude is great.